During a recent government meeting, officials discussed plans for future public meetings and the need for an airport consultant to ensure the financial sustainability of local airport operations.

The meeting began with a conversation about scheduling public meetings in various small cities, including North Home, Little Fork, Big Falls, and Birchdale. Officials expressed a desire to hold these meetings quarterly, potentially in the evenings to accommodate community members. The aim is to enhance public engagement and ensure that residents can participate in discussions that affect their communities. The proposal includes utilizing local schools and community centers for these gatherings, with the capability to record and broadcast the meetings.

In addition to the meeting schedule, the board addressed the need for an airport consultant. The airport steering committee recommended issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to identify opportunities for reducing the airport's annual subsidy while ensuring its long-term viability. The RFP will seek financial and risk analysis, strategic planning, and recommendations for ownership models. The goal is to have proposals submitted by December 6, with findings expected by June 30, 2025. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the airport's financial landscape and explore new revenue sources.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous agreement to move forward with both the public meeting schedule and the RFP for the airport consultant, emphasizing the importance of fiscal responsibility and community involvement in local governance.